What does prolapsus mean?
Prolapsus is the medical term for the displacement or downward movement of an organ from its normal position, particularly a pelvic organ such as the uterus, bladder, or rectum. The condition occurs when supporting tissues weaken or fail to hold the organ securely in place. Uterine prolapsus is the most widely recognized form, although the term can apply to other pelvic organs and, more broadly, to tissue that protrudes through a body opening. In everyday speech, people usually say “prolapse,” while “prolapsus” sounds more specialized and clinical. The word is useful in medical contexts because it identifies a specific structural problem rather than merely describing pain, discomfort, or a general sensation of falling. Its Greek and Latin background also links it with the familiar idea of something slipping or falling out of place.
nounA medical term for the displacement or falling of an organ or body part from its normal position, especially a pelvic organ. It is most commonly used to describe uterine prolapse, in which the uterus descends into or through the vagina.
- The displacement or downward falling of an organ from its normal position, especially a pelvic organ.
- The medical condition or condition of organ displacement itself.
"The diagnosis was a mild prolapsus of the uterus."
"Pelvic-floor exercises helped reduce the prolapsus."
"The report described a significant uterine prolapsus requiring surgical repair."
The standard plural is “prolapses.”
"Severe prolapses may require surgery."
A prolapsus is an organ literally losing its place: the uterus is the most familiar example.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does prolapsus come from?
“Prolapsus” comes from Latin, where it is a past participle formed from pro-, meaning “forward,” and labi, meaning “to fall” or “to slip.” The form passed into English through medical usage, with the sense of an organ having fallen or slipped from its proper position. The related English noun “prolapse” follows the same root and became the standard everyday term, while words such as “lapse,” “elapse,” and “collapse” reflect related forms from the Latin verb labi.
Related word forms
How prolapsus is actually used
This is primarily a clinical or formal medical term. In general English, “prolapse” is more common; “prolapsus” often appears in specialist medical writing.
Easily confused with prolapsus
“Prolapse” is the usual general term for the condition and can also be a verb, whereas “prolapsus” is a more formal medical noun.